Ultimate Pot Roast with Carrots and Potatoes 🥩🥕🥔
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a slow-cooked pot roast packed with tender beef, flavorful carrots, and creamy potatoes. This classic dish is a one-pot wonder that fills your home with rich, savory aromas while the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this pot roast recipe is a timeless favorite that delivers hearty flavors and a satisfying meal.
Why You’ll Love This Pot Roast Recipe
✔️ Fall-Apart Tender Beef – Slow-cooked to perfection, the beef is juicy, flavorful, and fork-tender.
✔️ Flavorful Vegetables – Carrots and potatoes soak up all the rich, beefy juices.
✔️ One-Pot Meal – No extra side dishes needed—everything cooks together!
✔️ Perfect for Meal Prep – Leftovers taste even better the next day.
✔️ Works in Oven, Slow Cooker, or Instant Pot – Versatile cooking methods to fit your schedule.
Let’s dive into how to make the best pot roast that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
For the Pot Roast:
✅ 3 lb beef chuck roast (or brisket, round roast)
✅ 1 tbsp olive oil
✅ 1 tsp salt
✅ ½ tsp black pepper
✅ 1 tsp garlic powder
✅ 1 tsp dried thyme
✅ 1 onion, chopped
✅ 4 carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
✅ 3 medium potatoes, cubed
✅ 3 cloves garlic, minced
✅ 2 cups beef broth
✅ 1 cup red wine (optional, for richer flavor)
✅ 2 tbsp tomato paste
✅ 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
✅ 1 bay leaf
For the Gravy:
✅ 2 tbsp cornstarch or flour
✅ 3 tbsp cold water
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Beef 🥩
1️⃣ Pat the chuck roast dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better.
2️⃣ Season generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme on all sides.
3️⃣ Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large Dutch oven (or heavy-bottomed pot) over medium-high heat.
4️⃣ Sear the roast for 3-4 minutes per side until deeply browned. This step locks in flavor.
📝 Pro Tip: If using a slow cooker, you can sear the roast in a skillet first for extra flavor.
Step 2: Build the Flavor 🧅🧄
1️⃣ Remove the beef and set aside.
2️⃣ In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3️⃣ Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
4️⃣ Pour in red wine (if using) and let it simmer for 2 minutes to cook off the alcohol.
5️⃣ Stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, scraping up browned bits from the bottom.
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection 🍲
1️⃣ Return the seared roast to the pot. Add carrots, potatoes, and bay leaf around it.
2️⃣ Cover and simmer on low for 3-4 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
⏳ Alternative Cooking Methods:
Slow Cooker: Cook on LOW for 8 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours.
Instant Pot: Cook on HIGH pressure for 60 minutes, then let it naturally release.
Oven: Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours in a covered Dutch oven.
Step 4: Make the Gravy 🍛
1️⃣ Remove the beef and vegetables from the pot. Set aside and cover to keep warm.
2️⃣ In a small bowl, mix 2 tbsp cornstarch with 3 tbsp cold water to form a slurry.
3️⃣ Stir into the pot juices and simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
4️⃣ Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
How to Serve Pot Roast 🍽️
Serve the pot roast sliced or shredded with the gravy drizzled on top. Pair it with:
🍞 Crusty bread – Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
🥗 Green salad – A fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
🌽 Side of roasted veggies – Adds even more depth to the meal.
💡 Leftovers Idea: Use shredded beef for sandwiches, tacos, or a beef stew the next day!
Tips for the Best Pot Roast
🔹 Choose the Right Cut – Chuck roast is best for its marbling and tenderness.
🔹 Sear for Maximum Flavor – Browning the meat before slow-cooking enhances the taste.
🔹 Use Fresh Herbs – Add fresh rosemary or thyme for extra depth.
🔹 Add Potatoes Later – If slow-cooking, add potatoes in the last 2 hours so they don’t overcook.
🔹 Deglaze the Pan – Scraping up browned bits from the pot = more flavor!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes! Chuck roast is ideal, but brisket or round roast also work well.
2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pot over low heat or in the microwave.
3. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening the gravy.
4. What can I substitute for red wine?
Replace with extra beef broth or balsamic vinegar for a similar depth of flavor.
5. How do I prevent dry pot roast?
Cooking low and slow is key! Make sure the roast is fully submerged in liquid while cooking.
Final Thoughts: A Comfort Food Classic
There’s a reason pot roast with carrots and potatoes has stood the test of time—it’s comforting, hearty, and full of deep, rich flavors. Whether you’re making it for Sunday dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.
🔥 Give this recipe a try and let us know what you think! 🔥
💡 Want more comfort food recipes?
👉 Check out our recipes on our blog: [https://zacrecipes.online/]
Enjoy & Happy Cooking! 🍲🥩